Isaac Harvey

on Creativity as a Way of Turning Disability into a Force for Good

Creativity, “this ability” of Isaac Harvey MBE, turned his disability into an unstoppable force for good.

He never allowed hypoplasia, his condition meaning no arms and short legs, to define him or limit his adventures. On the contrary, it’s precisely what led Isaac to do incredible things with his feet and courageous mind: “Creativity is the secret ingredient that made my life a lot more interesting and colorful.”

It’s what pushed him out of his comfort zone, into adventures he never thought would get onto his bucket list: sailing, skiing, wheelchair roller skating, skydiving or even carrying the Olympic torch! The key that opened doors to brainstorming with others, sparking ideas and projects that are anything but ordinary. The ticket that offered the freedom to live a full life.

Isaac has always been incredibly witty, so he started using his feet for filming and video production, which eventually led him to have a glorious YouTube career in vlogging. He has built a significant online presence on LinkedIn, too, the place where he talks about how he navigated mental health challenges with honesty and where the aim is to impact lives positively, sharing a realistic perspective on how is it to live an anything but ordinary life.

His loved ones always believed in his ability to change perceptions, although deep inside Isaac never really understood why: “Why should I be speaking about disability, when all I wanted was to explore my creativity?” Everything shifted after a public speaking event where he shared the obstacles he faced while still striving to live a fulfilling life. A woman approached him after the event, sharing how his words had changed her perspective on life: “It was a moment of understanding the impact that I am bringing to the world. Perhaps it was her who gave me a new direction of doing things.”

Recognized for his advocacy, Isaac was honored with an MBE by King Charles and featured in Vogue for promoting adaptive clothing. As president of Wheels and Wheelchairs and a dedicated community advocate, he strives to create inclusivity and challenge the stereotypes and perceptions of what differently-abled people can do.

Read Isaac Harvey MBE’s heartwarming answers for Inspirators and discover why the driver that keeps him going is seeing how others benefit from his stories! You'll find something valuable in his words and experiences. Allow them to shift your worldview, you'll not regret it!

Thank you, Isaac, for being a Creative Disability Advocate!

#INSPIRATORS QUESTIONNAIRE

Name: Isaac Harvey MBE

Company / Institution: Wheels and Wheelchairs

Title: President

Website: https://www.wheelsandwheelchairs.co.uk/

LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaacharvey-videoeditor/

Country of origin: United Kingdom

Country you currently live in: England

Your definition of Regeneration: An opportunity to start again or a chance to see and do something totally different to what you originally planned.

Main business challenge you face: Navigating the world of business can be tricky, especially when it comes to recognising my self-worth. I'm getting the hang of it, but the real challenge lies in convincing others to value my time, whether it's for speaking engagements or content creation. It's easy to doubt yourself in this space of advocacy, but watching other advocates succeed is a constant reminder that I am indeed worth it.

This realisation has become a priority for me. And whenever someone does recognise my worth and pays for my time and expertise, it fills me with gratitude and fuels my passion to keep going. It's these moments that make all the effort worthwhile.

Main driver that keeps you going: It's always interesting when people ask me ‘What keeps me going?’.

It's funny how my reasons have evolved over time. At first, I won't lie, it was all about racking up followers and views. But as time went on, my perspective shifted. I started sharing because it felt like the right thing to do, a way to contribute something meaningful. And when it comes to now, what really keeps me going is seeing how others benefit from my stories. They find something valuable in my experiences, even going as far as sending me a private message. I don't know if I want to call it inspiration or empowerment but internally it does drive me. As for the future, who knows? My motivations might change again. But one thing's for sure – as long as I have a reason to, I will keep going.

The trait you are most proud of in yourself: You know, the one trait I'm proud of about myself is my creativity. It's been my key to not getting trapped in the typical nine-to-five grind, it’s pushed me out of my comfort zone, into adventures I never thought would get onto my bucket list. And it's opened doors to brainstorm and collaborate with others, sparking ideas and projects that are anything but ordinary. It's like having a secret ingredient that makes life a whole lot more interesting and colorful!

The trait you most value in others: I appreciate creativity and humour in individuals, as connecting over new ideas and sharing a good laugh is something I really do treasure. Being creative myself, it's great to collaborate with others who can add their unique perspective. However, selflessness stands out for me, especially considering my personal circumstances.

Living with a disability means I depend on others for help with many daily tasks, even the simplest of tasks. I'm grateful for those who offer their support selflessly, which includes friends, family and beyond. Their kindness and willingness to assist not only make my day-to-day life smoother but also empower me to break barriers and demonstrate what's possible, despite the challenges.

Passions & little things that bring you joy: This most certainly got me pondering. To me, one of the passions or little things that really bring joy is the genuine happiness or accomplishment of others. I know it might sound a bit cheesy, but there's this strange feeling that comes from seeing someone else smile or achieve something they didn't think was possible. It's heartwarming and genuinely fulfilling. Witnessing those moments, feeling that shared sense of joy and pride, I can't help but smile. It’s a reminder of the beauty and potential of human connection and achievement. And on top of all of that, completing a task and knowing that your client is happy definitely makes it all worth it.

The Inspirators who determined you to take the regenerative path

Answering who inspired me to take the regenerative path is quite complex. From day one, my friends and family have been my biggest supporters, and they constantly encouraged me to focus on disability advocacy within my content creation. They believed in my ability to change perceptions, but honestly, I never really understood why. Why should I be speaking about disability, when all I wanted was to explore my creativity? However, everything shifted after a public speaking event where I shared the obstacles I face but still able to live a fulfilling life. A woman approached me afterwards, sharing how my words had impacted her view on life. It was a moment of understanding the impact that I am bringing to the world. So perhaps it was she who gave me a new direction of doing things.

Or maybe it was my own mental health journey playing a significant role. Reaching a breaking point forced me to take a step back to understand my feelings, leading to a path of self-discovery and self-awareness. In this aspect, I could say it was me who took that leap.

Reflecting on this journey, I realise there are many to thank, from close ones who never gave up on me to strangers who shared how my story affected them, and even myself for facing my struggles head-on. I'm grateful for this random path and where it's taking me, filled with learning, growth, and the chance to impact others.

A starting point for companies or professionals that are beginning the regeneration journey: For companies or professionals just beginning their regeneration journey, I believe the starting point should be learning from lived experiences. While textbooks and classes offer valuable knowledge, they often can't capture the full principle and depth of real-life situations.

Engaging directly with individuals who have gone through unique challenges and triumphs provides a more insightful, impactful learning experience. It’s about understanding the human aspect behind the theory, which can lead to more empathetic and effective approaches in any field. Listening to and learning from someone’s personal journey can offer insights that are far more meaningful and long-lasting than conventional education methods. This approach has helped shape my perspective and could greatly benefit others embarking on similar paths.

An honest piece of advice for young people who lose hope: Remember, no matter how tough life seems, there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. Speaking from personal experience, I've been there - I know what it's like to feel hopeless, to think that happiness centers on things like relationships or career success. When those didn't come to fruition, I hit a really low point, feeling completely lost, I got to a breaking point. But that point turned into a turning point for me. I took a step back for some real self-reflection and decided to dive into understanding mental health better. That's when I came across Bob Proctor and the concept of the law of attraction, which suggests that our thoughts, feelings, and words shape our reality. This alongside what I learned about meditation, opened my eyes and helped me rediscover hope.

So, my honest advice? Don't give up. And yes that is easier said than done and I don't want to sound like one of these gurus making it sound like it's an easy thing to do. Truth be told, I’m still on this journey, where I am learning every single day and taking it one step at a time. So, take time for yourself, learn about what influences your mental well-being, and remember that finding internal happiness is a journey, one that's more about your inner self than external circumstances.

Movies / Documentaries you would watch all over again: During the pandemic, I got into documentaries, which was something new for me. It all started with "Drive to Survive," which is really intriguing because it takes you behind the scenes of Formula One racing. I never thought I'd be interested in it, but seeing the personal side of the drivers and the effort that goes into each race really drew me in. This led me to "Breaking Point," which delves into the world of professional tennis. It's not just about the sport, but the intense emotional and physical journey of the athletes, which was eye-opening. And I have recently finished "Spelling the Dream," a completely different kind of documentary about Indian-American children competing in spelling bees. It was enlightening as it shows the dedication and cultural aspects behind their journeys.

These documentaries have expanded my horizons, giving me insights into worlds I knew little about, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the learning experience. But if we're going to be talking about ones that will want me to re-watch, it would have to be the movie Inception. I watched it three times in the cinema when it was out because the story as well as the way it made me think was so captivating. I really did appreciate the music, the story and how it gave me a whole new perception of dreams.

Websites / Podcasts you visit frequently: I don't listen to a lot of podcasts but I do want to take the opportunity to shout out Brooke who is the host of Disabled and Proud, where she gets people within the disability community to share their stories. It's a great space to learn and understand the vast community knowing what they bring to the table.

Music that makes you (and your heart) sing: Music has this unique way of speaking to me. I'm not great with song titles, but there's something about classics that just gets me. You know, those timeless tracks that everyone seems to know the words to? They always pull me in. In the mornings, I start with something chill, like lofi beats - it sets a peaceful tone for my day. But as the day goes on, I find myself going towards Electro Swing. It's got this upbeat, that really boosts my energy. And when I really need to get into the zone, nothing does the trick like some dubstep or drum and bass. The rhythm just gets me going. I'm varied when it comes to my musical tastes; I find joy in a variety of genres.

Places you travelled to that left a mark on you: Throughout my travels, I've been lucky enough to visit many incredible places around the globe, each offering a unique blend of beauty and cultural experiences. However, one destination that has deeply impacted me is Lourdes, in the South of France. Surprisingly, I've returned there 24 times since my first visit at the age of 7. Initially, I went as part of an Easter pilgrimage with the HCPT, a group that takes children with disabilities on this meaningful journey.

What's interesting is that I'm not Catholic, but there's something about Lourdes that keeps me going back. Maybe it's the spiritual atmosphere that makes me feel something, or perhaps it's the loving community I'm part of when I'm there. Whatever it is, Lourdes keeps drawing me back, and each visit feels just as special as the first.

Trends in Regeneration we should keep an eye on: One trend that caught my attention, especially after attending an event during Global Entrepreneurship Week, is "The Purpose Economy," a concept introduced by speaker Linzi Boyd. It's a really interesting idea that suggests future generations will gravitate more towards organisations and companies that are driven by a clear purpose rather than those without. This shift indicates a growing preference for meaning and impact in business, which could significantly influence how companies operate and market themselves. It's a trend that's not just about profitability but about making a positive impact on society and the environment. It’s definitely something worth considering and keeping an eye on as it could redefine the landscape of global business and regeneration efforts.

Events we should attend / Best places for networking (online or offline):

For those interested in meaningful networking, both online and off, there is the UnderOne Festival scheduled for this July. It's a unique 2-day event happening on the 24th and 25th in Northampton in the UK, featuring world-class speakers, immersive experiences, and game-changing discussions. What makes this event stand out is its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), ensuring a wide range of voices and perspectives. The festival is designed as a hybrid event, which means you can join from anywhere in the world, making it accessible to a global audience. While I regret to say I won't be able to attend due to prior commitments, I highly recommend it to anyone looking for valuable networking opportunities and the chance to meet some incredible individuals.

Reasons to feel optimistic about our future in 2030: Looking ahead to 2030, there are several reasons to remain optimistic about our future. As we navigate through 2024, time seems to fly, and before we know it, we'll be stepping into a new decade. One of the things I'm particularly intrigued. It will be interesting to see how the United Nations' ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive world, aligning with their global agenda will actually play out. In some ways, I do feel like we are moving in the right direction towards greater inclusivity and understanding. But, as we all witness in this world all it takes is one person to do something and it's back to square one.

The rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) make me optimistic about the potential for these technologies to enhance productivity and assist individuals in unprecedented ways. If used correctly, AI can be a powerful tool that levels the playing field for many, especially for those with disabilities or those in need of support. However, it's crucial that these technologies are used ethically and responsibly to avoid negative impacts, as the real concern lies with the misuse of AI.

While it's undeniable that we will continue to face challenges such as wars and discrimination, it will certainly be a very interesting time to see how these issues are resolved on a global scale. I remain hopeful as we continue to go forward, we will continue making significant strides. My outlook is more of a 'glass half full' perspective, believing in the potential for positive change and the role that each of us can play in shaping a better future.

Reasons to feel pessimistic about our future in 2030: While I tend to lean towards optimism about our future, there are indeed aspects that fuel my pessimism, especially as we look towards 2030. The main source of my concern is the sheer scale of the challenges we face and the limited time we have to address them. With only six years left, the timeline feels daunting considering the ongoing global issues such as wars, social unrest, and deep-seated inequalities that seem to impact every aspect of society.

The ambition of achieving the 2030 agenda for a more inclusive world with equality at its core is something I strive for every single day, but the practicality of it can feel overwhelming. My pessimism stems from questioning whether there are sufficient actionable steps in place and whether society at large is ready and willing to embrace the necessary changes. It's one thing to set ambitious goals; it's another to actually make them happen.

Also, while community involvement is important for this kind of transformation, I worry about whether communities worldwide are equipped, ready, or even willing to drive this change. The path to inclusivity and equality requires collective effort and a joined direction, and right now, it seems like we're still figuring out how to come together for these common goals. So, while I'm hopeful, I'm also cautious about the reality of these ambitious plans.

Regenerative Leadership qualities much needed today: Being a leader is one thing, but stepping up as a regenerative leader is a whole different ball game. In my view, to truly fulfil this role, one must first and foremost be a team player. It's essential to go beyond surface-level interactions and genuinely seek to understand and learn from the varied lived experiences of those around you. This kind of leadership requires adopting an intersectional approach in all aspects of work, acknowledging and addressing the multiple sides and layers of an individual.

Regenerative leadership isn't a solo venture; it's about recognising that you don't have all the answers and that strength lies in diversity and collaboration. A leader in this field should create an environment where teamwork is seen as essential to success. By bringing together a group of individuals with different perspectives, skills, and experiences, a regenerative leader can drive meaningful change. It's about creating a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.

The Inspirator you are endorsing for a future edition is:

There are so many people whom I would love to endorse as there are many I look up to when it comes to my advocacy work and everything that I do. But if I had to choose someone it would have to be Kat Paylor-Bent who is someone I am truly grateful for. She really does go out of her way to support many individuals but doesn't go for the recognition, where the community come first. I've also had the privilege of getting to where some of her outfits as she creates bespoke clothing for those with disabilities. I had the honour of looking quite stylish in one of her designs as I got to collect my MBE.

The quote that inspires you:

“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.”

Your quote that will inspire us:

I literally said this to a friend recently after having a troubling start to a day but I only came out of it as I took a step back, looked at today from a different perspective and pushed forward. Taking time for self is very powerful and being realistic about it is also very important.